Microneedling in a Bottle? Dermatologist Reviews Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Exosome Shot 7500

Can a skincare serum really give you the benefits of microneedling?

Reedle or Spicule contain serums like the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Exosome Shot 7500 have been making waves online, with claims of improved absorption, collagen production, and smoother skin.

But does it actually work? And is it worth your money?

I covered this in an indepth review during one of my Testing Tuesdays series episodes, where I try viral skincare products recommended by YOU and give you my honest, unbiased, science-backed opinion as a dermatologist.

https://youtu.be/aabO3hoEFqI?si=Nn0bSWk-JqHy2YkK

Let’s break down its ingredients, how it works, and whether you actually need it in your skincare routine.

What Does the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Exosome Shot Do?

Let’s start with collagen.

Collagen is an important structural protein that gives your skin firmness and support. But, applying collagen topically does not mean it will penetrate deeply into your skin and replace the collagen you naturally produce.

Collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin barrier effectively. When applied topically, collagen primarily acts as a moisturising ingredient, helping the skin retain water.

So, if you’re buying this (or any other similar) serum specifically for its collagen content, keep your expectations realistic.

There is also PDRN and exosomes- ingredients that have attracted considerable interest in skin rejuvenation.

PDRN is being investigated for its potential role in tissue repair and regeneration. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles involved in cell-to-cell communication and are also being studied for their potential skin benefits.

Yet, the evidence supporting these ingredients in professional treatments cannot automatically be applied to topical skincare products. 

We still need much more robust research.

The Spicules

The Medicube serum also contains spicules, microscopic needle-like structures that create a prickly sensation when applied to the skin.

The idea is that these structures interact with the skin’s surface and may temporarily influence the penetration of other ingredients.

However, this is not the same as professional microneedling.

While spicules may influence ingredient delivery, we cannot assume that they allow larger molecules to penetrate deeply enough to produce meaningful collagen stimulation.

Retinol

I wish the brand would highlight more prominently that this serum also has retinol. The GOAT of OTC anti-aging actives.

My Experience

Here’s how I use the product every week at night.

I apply it after my moisturizer at night, in a pea-sized amount using a micro-dot technique, spreading it across my face while avoiding the areas around my eyes and lips.

I gently massaged it into the skin.

Unlike professional microneedling, the serum doesn’t cause procedural pain. However, I did experience some tingling and discomfort when I first used it.

There’s also a prickly sensation that can persist after application. You may notice it against your pillow while sleeping, almost as though tiny needles are pricking your cheeks.

You do tend to get used to the sensation though.

So, Is It Really a Safe Alternative to Professional Microneedling?

I’m actually glad this product isn’t equivalent to professional microneedling.

Microneedling devices, including derma pens and derma rollers, are widely available online.

However, using these devices without appropriate training can cause complications, including irritation, infection, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and scarring.

I don’t recommend performing professional-style microneedling or using derma rollers at home.

A topical spicule-based serum is a different type of product, and its effects are likely to be much subtler.

Contraindication

All things said and done, this product can still irritate the skin, if you have active eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or a skin infection.

If you have sensitive skin or an impaired skin barrier, I’d be particularly cautious.

My Final Verdict: Is Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Exosome Shot 7500 Worth It?

Umm, kinda! But it’s an optional skincare step. Very, very optional.

If you want to try a product that offers a prickly sensation without undergoing a professional procedure, you might consider it, provided your skin can tolerate it.

However, don’t expect it to reproduce the results of professional microneedling. And don’t assume that the presence of collagen, PDRN, or exosomes guarantees meaningful collagen production or skin rejuvenation.

We need much more robust clinical evidence before we can confidently establish the benefits of topical PDRN and exosome products.

For me, I won’t be buying it again. Because I am already undergo professional microneedling regularly.

Want to see how the product feels on the skin and hear my complete dermatologist’s take?

Watch the accompanying episode of Testing Tuesdays on my YouTube channel, Dr. Alpana Skincare.